One of the first things I do everyday is check for new job postings in my area for HR. Am I looking for a new job? Yes and no. Yes, because I’m looking for something that catches my eye. No, because I’m content with my current position. I strongly encourage everyone to do the same thing.

Watching for new job postings can only benefit you (as long as you do it privately).

Know the Market

If you consistently watch job postings in your field and location you will soon see natural fluctuations and also the effects of the economy. This will help you time your next move. For example, I know never to leave a job in winter because there are very few HR openings at my experience level during the winter season. It’s good to know the market before you make that jump into unemployment.

Watch for Turnover

If you see the same job being reposted every year, there may be cause for concern about that position. Why do they keep losing the people in that position? Job postings won’t tell if there’s been a promotion or turnover, but it will give you a heads up to remember to ask why.

Keep up on the Networking

Paying attention to job postings can give you social knowledge. How embarrassed would you be to ask about someone’s job at XYZ at a networking event only to find out that they’re now unemployed. Job postings aren’t a replacement for gossip but they’re a start.

Look for the Job

The grass isn’t always greener on the other side but sometimes it is greener. You may be in a generalist role but truly want a specialist position. Or the opportunity of a lifetime may come up. You won’t know unless you’re looking.

Looking isn’t the same as applying or accepting. The more you look the more aware you are of your surroundings. The last thing you want to happen is to be stranded in the job market and not aware of your surroundings.